I plan on purchasing the side firebox and using the charcoal side solely
as a smoker. That way I can smoke food to get the flavor I want and then
either finish or keep warm the food on the propane side (and/or fix
burgers and dogs for the non-Q savvy eaters).

This way, if the firebox rusts away, it's easily replaceable.

Thanks for all the info!

Nunya Bidnits wrote:
"Tutall" wrote

Let's emphasize, good product for the money. For a casual griller/
barebecuer, they'll be fine. If you grill more than 52 times/year and
slow cook 4-6 times a year or more, Chargriller won't last too well.
Thin metal, etc. I burnt mine out in 3 years. But, I grilled on it 2x
week, and did butts and ribs on it with the offset, it was damn sure
worth it. For three years. If you're serious, go ahead and invest in
something with 1/4" steel.
================

FWIW, I don't know if you were using gas or wood/charcoal since apparently
that rig can use both, but if using wood/charcoal, the number one enemy of
steel in a cooker is ash. It will accelerate the rust and corrosion process,
and will be made worse if any water at all mixes with the ash, or in damp or
rainy conditions. Cleaning the firebox of ash down to the metal after every
use will prolong the life of the steel. Thicker is still better where steel
is concerned but keeping it clean and dry always makes a difference.

MartyB in KC